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Chinese Ambassador Condoles Death of Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae‑chan

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Lee Hae‑chan Dies During Vietnam Visit Lee Hae‑chan died on Sunday, Jan. 26 2026 while on a diplomatic trip to Vietnam [1]. The former South Korean prime minister had previously served seven terms in the National Assembly [1]. His death prompted condolences from regional leaders, including China’s ambassador [1].

Lee Served Twice as South Korea’s Special Envoy to China Lee acted as a presidential special envoy to China under liberal presidents Roh Moo‑hyun and Moon Jae‑in, facilitating high‑level diplomatic engagement [1]. He coordinated bilateral talks and trade initiatives that deepened cooperation between Seoul and Beijing [1]. The envoy role is highlighted as a major contribution to South Korea‑China relations [1].

Lee’s Legacy Includes Pro‑Democracy Activism and Legislative Service Lee endured torture and imprisonment during authoritarian rule before entering politics [1]. He later served seven terms as a lawmaker and advised multiple liberal presidents, shaping policy direction [1]. His activism is credited with strengthening South Korea’s democratic institutions [1].

Chinese Diplomatic Response Highlights Bilateral Ties Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing posted a condolence message on X, praising Lee’s efforts to strengthen South Korea‑China ties [1]. The statement emphasized Lee’s 2017 meeting with President Xi Jinping as a symbol of enduring partnership [1]. The ambassador’s remarks underscore the diplomatic significance of Lee’s career [1].

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Timeline

June 2025 – President Lee Jae Myung is inaugurated, launching a term that emphasizes expanding diplomatic outreach and sets the stage for a series of credential ceremonies and high‑level summits [4].

Oct 4, 2025 – Kang Kyung‑wha takes up her post as South Korea’s ambassador to the United States, though she must wait to present credentials before exercising full duties [3].

Oct 2025 – Ro Jae‑hun is appointed as South Korea’s first ambassador to Beijing under the Lee administration, signaling a renewed focus on Seoul‑Beijing relations [2].

Oct 29, 2025 – President Lee meets U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Gyeongju; Trump sends special regards to Lee, and Ambassador Kang accompanies the delegation [3].

Nov 2025 – President Lee holds a bilateral summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the APEC gathering, reinforcing South Korea‑China ties and later cited by Ro as a positive development [2].

Dec 11, 2025 – President Lee receives credentials from eight new ambassadors (India, Austria, Cambodia, Philippines, Egypt, Ghana, Sri Lanka, Lebanon), urging them to serve as “bridges” for deeper economic, cultural, and people‑to‑people exchanges and noting the recent APEC summit [4].

Dec 16, 2025 – Kang Kyung‑wha formally presents her credentials to President Donald Trump at the White House, officially becoming Seoul’s top envoy in Washington and enabling her to carry out full diplomatic duties [3].

Dec 16, 2025 – Ambassador Ro Jae‑hun delivers a speech at the National Museum of China urging expanded communication and exchanges between Seoul and Beijing, referencing the APEC‑linked summit with Xi and highlighting the attendance of senior Chinese officials Li Shulei and Mo Gaoyi [2].

Jan 26, 2026 – Former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hae‑chan dies while on a visit to Vietnam; his death prompts regional condolences and marks the loss of a pro‑democracy veteran who endured torture under authoritarian regimes and served twice as a presidential special envoy [1].

Jan 27, 2026 – Chinese Ambassador Dai Bing posts a condolence message on X, praising Lee Hae‑chan’s role in strengthening South Korea‑China relations and recalling his 2017 meeting with President Xi Jinping, underscoring the diplomatic bond between the two nations [1].

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